Lamine Yamal, Pedri and several Barcelona teammates reported to the club’s training ground on Thursday despite being given a day off by manager Hansi Flick ahead of Sunday’s Clasico against Real Madrid.
According to Catalan newspaper Sport, a group of players turned up voluntarily at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper to continue working as preparations for the crucial fixture gathered pace.
Those present included Yamal, Pedri, Fermín López, Gerard Martín, Xavi Espart and goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny, alongside injured players Roony Bardghji, Andreas Christensen, Jules Koundé, Eric García and Dani Olmo.
Flick had granted the squad a day off after the players returned from Paris at around 3:30am following their UEFA Champions League encounter against Paris Saint-Germain.
Barcelona held a recovery session on Wednesday, and with Real Madrid scheduled to visit on Sunday, the German coach decided that extra rest would help his players recover from their demanding schedule.
However, several members of the squad chose to continue their individual preparations instead.
Szczęsny was highlighted as an example of a player whose commitment to training remains consistent, even when attendance is optional.
Although known for his quirky personality, the Polish goalkeeper rarely misses an opportunity to visit the training ground, whether for gym work or other activities.
The goalkeeper’s appearance on Thursday further demonstrated his dedication to maintaining his fitness.
Several players recovering from injuries also used the day to continue their rehabilitation programmes. Bardghji, Christensen, Eric García and Olmo reported to the training facilities for treatment, while Koundé continued working towards regaining his fitness ahead of the Clasico.
The French defender’s condition remains a major talking point as Barcelona assess his availability for the weekend fixture.
Youngster Xavi Espart also stood out among those who attended.
The Maresme-born defender recently delivered an impressive performance against Paris Saint-Germain, scoring at the Parc des Princes and further underlining his potential.
His decision to continue working despite the scheduled rest day reflected the mentality Barcelona are seeking to maintain within the squad.
Such efforts are often described as “invisible work” — the additional preparation and commitment that may not attract attention during matches but can contribute to a player’s development and readiness.
Pedri, who impressed against Paris Saint-Germain, also used the day to work on his fitness, alongside Gerard Martín, who has been steadily rediscovering his best form. Fermín López was another player who turned up at the facilities.
With Real Madrid due to face Barcelona on Sunday, Flick wants his side to approach the encounter in the best possible condition.
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The manager has sought to establish high standards and encourage his players to maintain their professionalism beyond scheduled team sessions.
Thursday’s turnout offered another example of that commitment, with several players choosing to continue working despite being given permission to rest.
Barcelona will hold their final two collective training sessions on Friday and Saturday before the eagerly anticipated meeting with Real Madrid.
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